3i, Europe's largest listed private equity firm, will triple its exposure to the Indian market when it buys three separate stakes in companies from the subcontinent in the next few months, while the Carlyle Group, a US rival, is tabling bids for up to five companies in the country.

The 3i firm will invest between $30m (€23.9m) and $50m in each deal in India, according to Anil Ahuja, head of 3i's Indian operation. He was unable to name the companies, but stated the industries it is looking to acquire businesses within: healthcare, engineering, media, energy and financial services.